Best Places for Expats to Live in Hong Kong Part 2

17th December 2018

Because Hong Kong is so widely diverse and popular amongst expats we decided to offer up a part two of the Best Places for Expats to Live in Hong Kong. In the first part, we explored Pok Fu Lam, Sheung Wan and the Mid Levels, if you haven’t yet read part one, we recommend doing that here.

Tai Hang is rapidly growing in popularity amongst expats, especially amongst those looking for a slower and easier-going pace of life that is still just a short walk from the Causeway Bay. The neighbourhood is conveniently serviced by the Tin Hau train station, which is named after the nearby temple that was originally built back in 1747.

There are many restaurants and bars to enjoy in Tai Hang from the widely-renowned Classified restaurant to the more child-friendly Hello Kitty Secret Garden. Tai Hang certainly has something to offer everyone as ancient buildings happily reside next to contemporary living quarters, not only that but rent and living costs are amongst the most accessible in the area.

If you are lucky enough to be in Tai Hang in late September to early October you could witness the spectacular and world-famous Tai Hang fire dragon dance. Measuring 67 metres long, the 'fire dragon' winds its way through the streets of Tai Hang with much fanfare and even more smoke.

If you are an expat moving to Hong Kong and you are looking for a vibrant and lively place to live then Wan Chai should certainly be on your shortlist of districts to consider. Although just a few years ago it was one of the cheapest areas to live in, Wan Chai has become increasingly popular amongst expats. It has been through a phase of rapid modernisation that has seen house prices creeping up recently, but don’t let that put you off, you will get a lot for your money here.

The metropolitan area of Wan Chai is situated on the Northern Shore and is home to a large number of small and medium-sized businesses, it is also home to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), Central Plaza and Hopewell Centre. As well as being a business hub, Wan Chai is also a hub for the performing arts thanks to the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts and Hong Kong Arts Centre, two of the most popular venues for theatrical and cultural performances in Hong Kong.

If you are moving to Hong Kong but yearn for a quieter home life, away from the hustle of the city, then Clearwater Bay could be the ideal location for you. With long sandy beaches to one side and forest walks to the other and only low-rise buildings in between, Clearwater Bay offers a very different way of life with a real community feel. The nearby Sai Kung Peninsula gives local residents access to beautiful trail walks and a large seafood market as well as a handful of charming shops and restaurants.

Clearwater Bay does not offer much in terms of large businesses nearby, so unless you work at the local Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, chances are you can expect a commute to work, but this is a small price to pay for living in one of the most scenic areas of Hong Kong.